I am strongly opposed to this change.  It is not logical, and does not further the purpose of protecting the public.  I agree with all the comments submitted in opposition to this change by my fellow colleagues, many of whom are specialists and respected educators in specialty programs.  I also agree with formal statements submitted by specialty organizations such as the American Association of Orthodontists.  It makes sense that specialists would be the most likely to comment on this change, but is my hope that members of the general public comment as well, or are solicited for input beyond this comment section if few respond.  I doubt that many members of the public would think it appropriate that the dental organization designed to protect them supports the ability to advertise as a dental specialist without being a dental specialist.  Go survey 100 on the streets of downtown Richmond, and ask them this question:  "If you picked an oral surgeon for an emergency, how would you feel if you later found out that the doctor was not actually an oral surgeon as they advertised?"  See what answers you are given, and make your decision based upon those answers.